Our Mission

Carol’s Light is founded on the belief each of us has something- we all share grief and light.
We believe that we are better together and that with clear awareness, our light can shine.

How it began…

Carol’s Light is named after Carol Vanek, who lived with bi-polar disorder. Throughout her many challenges, she found her inspiration and daily gratitude through worship and the love of family.

In September 2008, Carol was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. As her family gathered around her hospital bed, Carol looked at us and said, “The doctor has given me 3 to 6 months. What a blessing. I will have 3 to 6 months to say goodbye to all my loved ones before I go home”. To this day, Jaemie (her son) and I, are forever grateful for Carol’s words and so humbled to have seen her grace, compassion, and acceptance of her final journey. I remember Carol’s smile, her prayers, her tears, her singing and whistling, and her stories. But most of all I remember her love.

We believe everyone faces personal challenges, and through the support of community, we are better together. We welcome you on our journey.

A Letter From Deby

Our Story

the spark

Carol and our community showed us compassion when we needed it most. They sparked a light inside of us to pay kindness forward, so we founded Carol’s Light in 2020.

the growth

Thanks to our generous donors, we deliver gifts and funding to those in need. We partner with yoga teachers, oncology nurses, service dog trainers, and other experts to serve our community well.

the dream

We envision a world where no one faces hardship alone. Our dream is to create a community of care, where everyone receives the support they need when life gets tough.

Our programs remind each person of their inner strength and to light the way through challenging times

Our Programs

I Am Brave creates opportunities for people who are fighting cancer and other hardships, and their families to relax, rejuvenate, and experience ease in their day. A variety of services are offered, including our I Am Brave Gift Baskets
We visit senior centres, schools, airports and other areas to serve people experiencing anxiety and trauma
By working with trusted teachers, our trauma-informed mindfulness & yoga programs support people of all ages both online and in-person